Heart and Souls (1993)

Much can be said about the career of Robert Downey Jr., but the one thing that can never be denied is the fact that, no matter what the project, he always puts everything into his role. Chaplin comes to mind and even Only You could support the idea, but perhaps no film illustrates Downey's ethos better than Heart and Souls. From a slightly above-average script and adequate direction from Ron Underwood, Downey almost single-handedly turns the film into a memorable and satisfying effort. As Thomas, a role any other actor could easily get away with phoning in, Downey turns in an Oscar-worthy performance that often outshines the film itself. Additionally, credit must also be given to the ensemble that make up Thomas' ever-present heavenly entourage. Alfre Woodard, Charles Grodin, Tom Sizemore, and Kyra Sedgwick bring the sort of effectiveness to their supporting roles that audiences have come to expect from them. Heart and Souls probably should have just been a pretty good movie, but with another marvel of a turn by Robert Downey Jr., it's nearly great. ~ Matthew Tobey, All Movie Guide